Accountability means that an EMB is responsible for its activities, and must periodically provide evidence to its stakeholders and the public that these activities are effective and meet its prescribed legal, ethical, service and financial standards. The principle of accountability requires EMBs to provide comprehensive public information on their policies, intended outcomes, performance and the resources they have used and intend to use, including public and other funds. This is especially important where the EMB’s independence from the executive government excludes the type of accountability to ministers that is a characteristic feature of public administration in many countries.
Accountability has a number of positive effects on the operations of an EMB. It increases the transparency of the EMB and promotes good governance, which helps it gain the confidence of the public and important stakeholders, particularly political parties and government ministries. A lack of proper accountability mechanisms may lead to accusations of poor operational transparency.
